definition of
absorption

[1] #1 absorption n. [soaking up] (chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid. wn

[2] #2 absorption n. (physics) the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium; "the absorption of photons by atoms or molecules". wn

[3] #3 absorption n. [assimilation] the social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another. wn

[4] #4 absorption n. [assimilation] the process of absorbing nutrients into the body after digestion. wn

[5] #5 absorption n. [concentration, engrossment, immersion] complete attention; intense mental effort. wn